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Shawabty
Egyptian
New Kingdom, Dynasty 18–20
1550–1070 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Wood
Credit Line
Hay Collection—Gift of C. Granville Way
Accession NumberRES.72.71
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAncient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsTomb equipment – Shawabties and shawabty boxes
DescriptionShawabty of wood with substantial bitumen coating over most surfaces, now worn somewhat smooth in some areas and down to wood in others. Characteristically mummiform figure; wears a tripartite wig; arms crossed over chest as though bundled under wrappings with some modeling of hands. Unclear if the shawabty was originally shown holding implements in hands or addorned with painted decoration and/or applied text.
ProvenanceBy 1836: Robert Hay Collection, Linplum, Scotland; 1863: to his son, Robert James Alexander Hay; 1868-1872: Way Collection, Boston (purchased by Samuel A. Way through London dealers Rollin and Feuardent, 27 Haymarket); 1872: given to the MFA by Samuel's son, C. Granville Way.
(Accession Date: June 28, 1872)
(Accession Date: June 28, 1872)